Published on: 7/9/2025
What are the different types of seizures?
Seizures are generally classified into two main types—focal and generalized—with several subtypes that affect the body and brain differently.
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Explanation
Seizures are categorized based on where they start in the brain and how they affect the body:
Focal (Partial) Seizures – Start in one area of the brain: Focal Aware Seizures: The person stays conscious but may have strange sensations, emotions, or movements (previously called “simple partial seizures”). Focal Impaired Awareness Seizures: The person may seem confused, dazed, or unresponsive (previously “complex partial seizures”).
Generalized Seizures – Involve both sides of the brain: Tonic-Clonic Seizures: Cause stiffening (tonic) and jerking (clonic) of muscles, often with loss of consciousness. Absence Seizures: Brief periods of staring or “zoning out,” mostly seen in children. Myoclonic Seizures: Sudden, quick muscle jerks without loss of awareness. Atonic Seizures: Sudden loss of muscle tone, causing the person to go limp or fall. Tonic Seizures: Sudden muscle stiffening, often causing falls. Clonic Seizures: Repeated rhythmic jerking of muscles, typically in the arms or legs.
Doctors may use EEGs, brain imaging, and medical history to determine the seizure type, which is essential for choosing the right treatment.
(References)
- Fisher RS, Cross JH, French JA, Higurashi N, Hirsch E, Jansen FE, et al. (2017). Operational classification of seizure types by the .... Epilepsia, 28276060.
- Fisher RS, Cross JH, D'Souza C, French JA, Haut SR, Higurashi N, et al. (2017). Instruction manual for the ILAE 2017 operational .... Epilepsia, 28276064.
- Pack AM. (2019). Epilepsy Overview and Revised Classification of Seizures .... Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.), 30921011.
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